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The Nature Box: Estancia La Jolla

One of the best things about California is the variety. You can find yourself atop a snow capped mountain in the morning and along the coast of La Jolla, standing at the front of a property tucked behind a fortress of lush greenery where beauty, magic and an unmistakably rich culture overflows by the afternoon. Put your bags down and settle in at

A stone’s throw from the and a two-minute walk away from the revered Salk Institute, Estancia La Jolla affords you an opportunity to indulge in the natural beauty of the area and get lost in amongst 10 acres of enchanting Spanish Revival style.

Pull up to a pristine, tiled driveway that’s framed by a host of succulents, delicate flowers and greenery to be led into the hotel’s lobby, which blends contemporary elements. Modern hide pillows, nailhead ottomans and rich art were combined with classic Spanish elements, exposed beams, rich leathers and a rustic halo chandelier. All around are French doors leading to the lush grounds. Also housed within the lobby is a quick eats spot, Blend, where artful lattes are crafted, unique local gifts are bought and wine is on tap.

Estancia boasts 210 rooms, all with private balconies overlooking the property. Pretty palms shade courtyards all while sharing the scene with calming waterfalls, pathways and fireplaces. As you stroll through the beautifully tiled place you’ll no doubt find a curling vine falling down to greet you. The hotel is idyllic and quickly causes you to forget outside troubles and fully embrace the sounds, the warmth and the sunsets that tickle Estancia daily.

The property, however, is more than just great strolls and the sound of the Spanish guitar. Its guestrooms are plush and calming, designed in a neutral palette and peppered with flare--think fuzzy pillows, unexpected patterns here and there, luxe Turkish linens and pops of color when needed. Bathrooms are set in marble and accented with glittering fixtures.

Loaded with activities and culinary experiences, Estancia features fun casual dining at Mustangs and Burros, where the menu is a fresh take on Mexican fare and more formal dining at Adobe El Restaurante, where you can overlook the breathtaking courtyard at breakfast and gush over the magnificence of the Churro French Toast. Beyond that the hotel’s onsite wine cellar, Trinitas Wine Cellar, is home to more than award winning wines and flights, here you can experience the rich knowledge of the Estancia mixologists and sommeliers are are versed in barrel-aged spirits and often host education sessions for guests--worth the experience, indeed

And lest we not forget the spa or the pool--where the real relaxation happens. Fashioned after a Moroccan hideaway, the 7,000 square foot space blends calming color with texture and privacy for an experience that is unmatched. The design carries through into the treatment rooms and out to the co-ed relaxation space that features a fireplace amongst the trees. Moreover, the spa features seasonal treatments as well as offerings tailored to your specific needs.

The pool space is equally enticing with a host of cabanas and daybeds. There’s no shortage of towel, beverages or sunshine here.

All in all, Estancia, transports you, removing you from your day-to-day and placing you into a space that’s tucked away, quiet and almost surreal. Nearby activities are endless from dinner in town, to kayaking with sea lions, hang gliding, surfing or even taking advantage of some people watching at Salk or signing up for a botanical tour.

The commitment to nature is evident at Estancia La Jolla in so many ways and helping you connect with it is what they do best.